Introduction
In 2014, Scarlett Johansson surprised the world by baring it all on the big screen. While many never expected her to take such a daring step, she did just that in the movie "Under the Skin." This article delves into Johansson's decision to embrace nudity as a means of artistic expression and explores the film's unique storyline.
Scarlett Johansson naked in Under the Skin
Embracing Creativity and Breaking Boundaries
"Under the Skin" is not your typical science fiction film. Directed by Jonathan Glazer, it pushes the boundaries of the genre and offers a minimalistic and intriguing narrative. Johansson, known for her remarkable talent and beauty, was surprisingly open to the filmmaking process and comfortable with the movie's subject matter and requirement for nudity.
A Liberating Experience
In an interview with Yahoo! Movies, Johansson shared her thoughts on the role and why being naked in the movie was important for her character's development. She reflected on the process of letting go and being fully present in the moment, allowing herself to discover her character's true essence. Through this journey, she realized the judgments she placed on herself and the self-consciousness she harbored. The nudity in the film became a catalyst for liberation.
Johansson stated, "I'm a pretty private person. It's not like I want to be displaying myself all over the place... But I think I realized that through the process of just letting go, and allowing myself as the character to be totally present in the moment... I realized what kind of judgment I place on myself, and how self-conscious I am about all different kinds of things. That wasn't just the nudity, but many different situations, where I just had to... we just couldn't capture what we needed unless I was totally free of myself. That, in a sense, was very liberating."^[1]^
Redefining Beauty and Character
Before agreeing to the nudity, Johansson had one specific requirement for her character. She wanted her appearance to reflect the unique nature of the alien she portrayed. Her decision to have black hair rather than traditional bombshell blonde hair played a significant role in ensuring that her nudity served a practical purpose within the context of the film.
Johansson explained, "She was a totally different species, so her nudity was kind of practical. I also had black hair. That was my idea - I didn't think I should be a blonde sort of bombshell. Naked, but not too sexy."^[2]^
A Cinematic Delight
"Under the Skin" received critical acclaim at the Toronto Film Festival, with one critic comparing it to iconic films like Stanley Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey" and Nicolas Roeg's "The Man Who Fell to Earth." The movie captivated audiences, offering a unique perspective on humanity, sexual identity, and mercy.
While the film's nudity undoubtedly grabbed attention, it was the underlying artistry and thought-provoking narrative that truly resonated with viewers. Johansson's willingness to push boundaries and embody her character's vulnerability added an extra layer of depth to the film.
Scarlett Johansson strips in Under the Skin
A Bold Move
Johansson's decision to appear naked on screen in "Under the Skin" was a testament to her commitment to her craft. It showcased her fearlessness to explore the complexities of human nature and confront societal expectations. While the inclusion of nudity certainly garnered attention, it is essential to view the film as a whole, appreciating its thought-provoking themes and Johansson's remarkable performance.
"Under the Skin" is a film that challenges conventions and exposes vulnerabilities, both for its characters and its lead actress. It stands as a testament to the power of art and the courage required to embrace creative exploration.
Scarlett Johansson nearly naked in Ghost in the Shell
If you're eager to witness Scarlett Johansson's exceptional talent and captivating on-screen presence, "Under the Skin" is a must-watch. Remember, the film offers much more than just nudity; it provides a unique and thought-provoking experience that will leave a lasting impression.
^[1]^ - Scarlett Johansson on why she decided to get naked on film ^[2]^ - Scarlett Johansson's requirement before being naked in Under the Skin
